While some facilities in the Chengdu area previously allowed visitors to hold or hug giant pandas for a significant fee, this practice has been suspended at major centers like the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding. Currently, most reputable conservation sites have moved away from direct contact to protect the health of the pandas, as they are susceptible to human diseases. Travelers interested in a closer experience can participate in a Panda Volunteer Program, most notably at the Dujiangyan Panda Base or Wolong Panda Base. These programs, which typically require advance booking and a fee ranging from 1,000 to 2,000 CNY, allow participants to help keepers by cleaning enclosures, breaking bamboo, and preparing "panda cakes." While these volunteer activities offer an intimate look at panda care and may occasionally allow for feeding through bars or brief supervised contact, prolonged holding or cuddling is no longer permitted under current strict regulations.